The ES Advantage Blog

When you’re running your own truck or managing a small fleet, every dollar counts, especially when it comes to fuel. That’s why fuel discounts can feel like a lifeline. But here’s the thing: Do you truly know what that “discount” is actually costing you?

Too often, operators and small fleet owners sign up for a program thinking they’re saving big, only to find hidden fees, conditions, or fine print that eat away at their bottom line. The biggest culprit? A lack of transparency.

Here are five common pitfalls to watch out for, and smart questions you should be asking any fuel card provider before you sign on the dotted line.

The Minimum Gallon Catch

Some discount programs look great on paper until you realize you only get that discount if you hit a certain number of gallons each month. Miss that threshold? The savings quietly disappear, and many providers don’t even notify you when you’re not qualifying anymore.

Best Practice: Make sure your fuel discount doesn’t come with surprise conditions attached to your volume.

Key Question to Ask:
“Are there any minimum gallon requirements for me to keep my full discount and how will I be notified if I drop below that?”

Hidden Fees Rolled Into the Discount

Some fuel card companies proudly claim “no fees.” And while that sounds great, it doesn’t always mean they’re free. Many take a hidden cut out of the discount itself, so instead of passing the full savings on to you, they pocket the difference.

Best Practice: Look for providers that clearly break down exactly where your savings come from and where any fees go.

Key Question to Ask:
“Can you show me exactly how the full fuel discount is calculated and passed through? Are any fees deducted from that discount before it reaches me?”

Too-Good-to-Be-True Intro Offers

An eye-popping discount sounds great, but is it permanent? Some programs hook you with an introductory rate that quietly drops after a few months on the road.

Best Practice: Make sure the rate you’re promised today is the rate you’ll still see six months down the road, unless you agree otherwise.

Key Question to Ask:
“Is this discount guaranteed for the life of my account, or does it change after an introductory period?” Plus, explore 5 Ways To Ensure You Get The Most Out Of Your Fuel Discount Program.

Where the Savings Really Go

It’s easy to look at a statement and see a “discount,” but do you know how much of it you’re actually getting? A simple pie chart can tell you more than pages of fine print, and a truly transparent program will show you exactly how much you save and exactly what you pay in fees.

Best Practice: Ask your provider to show you the real math behind the savings, in clear terms you can understand.

Key Question to Ask:
“Can you break down my total cost and savings on a typical month, including all fees, pass-through discounts, and any cuts you take?”

Poor Communication Can Cost You

When you rely on a fuel card to run your business, you can’t afford to be left in the dark. If your provider doesn’t communicate when discounts change, fees increase, or program rules shift, you could end up paying more without even realizing it.

Best Practice: Work with a partner that’s committed to clear, regular updates, and has real people you can reach when you need help.

Key Question to Ask:
“How do you communicate changes to my program? And if I have an issue, who do I call and where are they based?”

Unlock Fuel Savings with ES Advantage

​​The best fuel card isn’t just about the biggest advertised discount, it’s about consistent savings, clear fees, no hidden conditions, and support you can count on when you need answers. When you ask the right questions, you protect your business from surprises and keep more of your money where it belongs, in your pocket and on the road.

At ES Advantage, we believe in putting all the cards on the table – no minimums, no hidden cuts to your discount, no surprise fees, and real people ready to help whenever you need it. If you’re ready for a fuel program that’s built for owner-operators and small fleets, with transparency you can trust, we’re here to help you get started.

Want real-world insights? Hear from veterans like Brent Lacoste in ES Advantage Program Plays Key Role for Veteran Owner-Operator Brent Lacoste.

We’re here to help you get started. Apply now or call our team at 888-566-9877.